THE POWERS OF THE STATES CHAPTER 10

A. The Need for State Governments There are 50 states with different populations 2. There are 7,000 miles between Alaska and Texas 3. Each state has special needs the federal government can’t handle

B. Limiting States’ Powers The 13 original states used to coin money, tax goods, and raise their own Armies (all things the fed gov’t does now!) 2. The Constitution limited the powers of states so they wouldn’t fight each other 3. Article 1, Section 10 forbids states to: enter into treaties print or “coin” money grant nobility titles engage in wars or raise armies

4. States can: create local gov’ts establish schools run all local, state elections set laws for marriage / divorce issue licenses for work (doctors, plumbers, lawyers, etc)

C. State Constitutions 1. Each state needs a written set of laws 2. All states = rule of and by the people 3. Limited governments - all rights in Bill of Rights are protected in states 4. Separation of Powers - each state has the 3 branches of gov’t 5. Checks and Balances - all branches “check / balance” each other

D. State Powers 1. States can: - Pass laws and ensure people follow them - Set up courts - Can raise money through taxes - Set up rules for business within the state - protect the health, safety and well-being of all citizens

2. Health, Safety and Well-Being - Sets rules and regulations for public places (ie: cleanliness, drug free) - Set highway speed laws and safety laws for workers - Set building safety codes - Limits rights (set driving age / marriage age) - Test professions (doctors, lawyers) 3. State law may not violate the Constitution

E. Working with the Feds 1. Air / water pollution - states must work together with the feds 2. Federal Aid given to states - money is given to help states (ie: floods, earthquakes, highway projects, public transportation)